Devon pensioner jailed for life

Christine Rawle, 70, stabbed her husband

A 70-year-old woman from Braunton is starting a life sentence for murdering her husband, after years of mutual abuse.

Christine Rawle will serve a minimum of 17 years, less the 19 months she has been in custody.

She had denied the murder of 72-year-old Ian Rawle.

But a jury at Exeter Crown Court found her guilty.

They heard that police were called to an isolated address in Knowle, Braunton on Sunday 21 August 2022, following reports that a man had been stabbed.  Despite their efforts to save Mr Rawle, he was pronounced dead, having sustained a single knife wound to his back which was later found to have a punctured lung.  

Mrs Rawle acknowledged she had stabbed him when she was on a call to her daughter, who called emergency services. 

It was also heard that Mrs Rawle had also called a friend before police arrived to ask her to look after her animals. During this conversation, it was reported that she had said ‘he just kept on and on at me’ and that ‘the police are on their way’.    

It was reported that there were long standing difficulties between the two and that both had previously assaulted each other, damaged property belonging to the other, and acted discourteously towards one another. 

Judge James Adkin said: “It was a wholly unprovoked attack when he was completely defenceless." Mrs Rawle had not called an ambulance, ignored his pleas for help and instead prioritised the welfare of her animals after the attack.

He went on to say: "The main reason you killed your husband was because you have an ungovernable temper."

Detective inspector Ilona Rosson said: “We welcome the verdict reached by members of the jury who have heard the evidence presented in the trial and deliberated carefully before making their decision. 

“I would like to thank and commend all those who have been involved in what has been a complex investigation, including those who provided their expertise, evidence and the prosecution team. 

“The family and friends of Ian have had to endure a tragic loss and I hope the outcome reached and sentence given will bring some closure to them. 

“My thoughts, and those of the entire investigation team, are with them at this time.”   

If you’ve been affected by anything in this news article, support is available. If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, call 999. 

For non-emergency reports please use our website, where you will also find more information about domestic abuse and who can help www.devon-cornwall.police.uk  

Branches Boots and other independent pharmacies display the “Ask For ANI” poster (Assistance Needed Immediately) where you you can discreetly ask staff for “ANI” and they will take you to a private room where you can contact the police or a support agency. 

National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24 hrs) 0808 2000 247  
National Men’s Advice Line https://mensadviceline.org.uk